It is highly likely that your drain waste system is made of cast iron if you own or looking to buy a home that was built prior to 1970. When it comes to cast iron piping, the opinions concerning functionality and durability vary. Due to its durability, and its capabilities of insulating noisy running water, cast iron plumbing has been in use for hundreds of years. Despite the advantages, the concerns stem from the chemistry. With this in mind, we at Kevin W. Puckett Plumbing would like to take the opportunity to discuss cast iron pipe replacement.
Probable Hazards of Cast Iron Piping
Hydrogen sulfide gasses develop when cast iron pipes carry waste. The pipes will rust from the inside out because when these gasses oxidize, corrosive sulfuric acid is created. The water flow will become restricted from the rust flakes within the pipe can accumulating in one location. Homeowners may find themselves calling the plumber every six months to clear out the pipes as this slow drainage is often the first indication of a problem. Inspection can prove challenging if the pipes are located below the slab. With an expert from Kevin W. Puckett Plumbing, there are 3d Camera and Video inspections that can useful if this problem manifest, however.
Replace the Cast Iron Pipes
Spot repairs can be tempting under ideal circumstances such as if the home is built on piers and beams. The presumption of replacing the few feet of pipe where the problem is not enough and definitely not recommended.
Unless all of the antiquated pipes are replaced is it difficult to get a licensed professional to warranty their work. Easily developing in unwanted settlement and mold, undetected moisture caused from spot repairs to the pipes can expose the foundation system, especially if they leak again in excess, can be very costly. Calling out mold inspectors is also recommended in the event you notice there have been previous spot repairs or possible leaks. Ultimately, when it comes to replacing the cast iron piping or not, hiring an experienced home inspector or certified plumber to acquire the information about the drain waste system’s performance, which can be used to determine if the older cast iron waste pipes should be replaced. If possible, they can perform a visual inspection on the pipes as well as flood test several sinks and tubs to identify slow drainage.
Professional Plumber Assistance
If a home inspector sees a problem, contact licensed professional plumber to evaluate the interior and when possible the exterior of the pipes is essential since the slow drainage can be related to other problems and may not indicate damaged cast iron pipes. Failure to replace or line the damaged pipes may result in more inconveniences and costs down the road.
Plumbing Excavation Services & More in Middletown, OH | Butler & Warren Counties, Ohio
If you want to be proactive, or determine of the cast iron pipes are causing an issue in your home, call in the experts of Kevin W. Puckett Plumbing and our experts will identify the problem and can replace the cast iron pipes to protect your long-term plumbing system.
